What are key codes? They are the numbers that come with the lock that you just purchased. They contain information that identify the pinning sequence in the lock and in turn provides the information necessary to cut a key. For example, suppose you take your house key into a big box store to get more keys made. The store clerk will identify the type of key you have (the lock manufacturer), then he will either duplicate the key or use the number stamped on the key to make new ones.
Now, if you read the above paragraph again you will notice that you are never asked for your identification, meaning anyone can take your key and have another one made. In other words, there is no accountability and hence no key control.
With high security locks, the key code is registered to you and that information is put into a database program that tracks your codes. The key code is usually blind, this means that by looking at the code you cannot get information on how the lock is pinned or how to cut a duplicate key. The blind code is matched with a pinning code which has all the information.
Key Codes
- Used to identify the pinning sequence of the lock
- Used to cut duplicate keys
- High security locks require identification before keys are cut
- High security lock codes are registered to the end user
- Blind codes do not give away the pinning and cutting information
- High security codes are maintained in a secure database
Convenience vs Security:
The locks that you buy at hardware stores or big box stores offer convenience in a mid-security level, this might be OK for most people. However, always ask yourself what are you trying to protect or lock and if that is valuable is it worth a little inconvenience.
You can’t buy high security locks at hardware stores or big box stores. They are purchased at specialized locksmiths or manufacturer approved service centers. These places will sell you the hardware and then register the lock code to you. They will also provide you with the secure lock code and a way for you to use it if necessary. They will also secure that code into a database where it will not be assigned to anyone else.
So, are your lock codes secure, do you even know where those code are? Maybe it’s time to look at your locks, count your keys and decide if it’s time to get a higher security lock.